Fueled by a new interest in the individual, the birth of the Renaissance in Florence in the 15th century brought a rebirth of the long dormant art of Portraiture. What better place to study the practice and history of Portraiture than in Monte Castello di Vibio, just a stone’s throw from that extraordinary city?

In this two-week workshop, students will be immersed in the Art of the Portrait. Working daily from the live model, they will study the structure of the head, beginning with seeing the skull as it presents itself in each individual. Through demonstrations, slide presentations, and one on one critiques as they work, they will learn to identify the shapes and planes specific to an individual model and to understand the principles of traditional design inherent in each portrait.

This Portraiture workshop is perfect for anyone wanting to learn to draw or paint portraits or to improve in their already existing portrait practice. Since so much teaching happens one-on-one, both beginners and more seasoned artists will benefit greatly from the intensive experience of studying and drawing/painting daily for two weeks. The small class size (limit of 10) will ensure ample instruction for each student.

Students are welcome to draw or paint, depending upon their level of experience.

Class time will be supplemented with two field trips to world class museums in Florence and Rome. These excursions will serve to deepen students’ understanding of the skills and concepts they’re learning. In addition, they’ll come to appreciate the history of Portraiture itself and its place in the overall history of art.